The Non-EU Couple’s Guide: Getting Legally Married in Portugal

A specialized guide for citizens of the USA, UK, Canada, Australia, and other non-EU nations.

Planning a destination wedding in Madeira is a dream for many couples outside the European Union. However, the legal requirements for non-EU citizens have recently become more complex. Specifically, the introduction of the “Double Apostille” requirement means that the standard advice you find online is often outdated.

At Madeira Weddings, we specialize in managing these specific legal hurdles for international couples. This guide outlines the exact process you need to follow to ensure your marriage is legally recognized both in Portugal and back home.

1. The Reality for Non-EU Couples

If you are not an EU citizen, your documents are subject to a higher level of scrutiny by the Portuguese Civil Registry. You cannot simply bring your birth certificates and hope for the best. Portuguese law now requires a verified chain of authentication that must be started in your home country and finished here in Funchal.

2. The "Double Apostille" Strategy

This is the most critical part of your planning. For a non-EU wedding to be legal, you must follow this 4-step chain:

Home Country Apostille: You must obtain your original “Full-Length” Birth Certificates and Certificates of No Impediment. These must be Apostilled by the Secretary of State or the relevant federal office in your home country. You can find the official instructions for your country here:
- USA: U.S. Department of State Office of Authentications
- UK: GOV.UK Legalisation Office
- Canada: Global Affairs Canada Authentication Services
- Australia: DFAT Australian Passport Office (Smartraveller)
The Document Hand-Off: You ship these original, Apostilled documents directly to our office in Madeira.
Authorized Portuguese Translation: Once the documents arrive, they must be translated into Portuguese. Important: Translations done in the US, UK, or other countries are frequently rejected. We handle your translations in-house using authorized translators recognized by the Portuguese registry.
The Secondary Portuguese Apostille: This is the “Double” part. The Portuguese translation itself must then be Apostilled within Portugal. This second seal is what guarantees the document will be accepted by the Registrar.

3. Timeline: When to Start

For non-EU couples, we recommend starting the paperwork process 6 to 8 months before your wedding date.

Validity: Most documents (like your Birth Certificate and CNI) must be issued within 6 months of the wedding date.
Shipping: You should aim to have your home-country Apostilles finished and the documents in our hands in Madeira at least 3 months before the ceremony to allow for the secondary local processing.

4. Why You Need a Local Legal Representative

Navigating the Conservatória do Registo Civil (Civil Registry Office) requires fluent Portuguese and a deep understanding of local administrative habits.

As your representative, Jared and the team at Madeira Weddings act as your boots-on-the-ground. We use a Power of Attorney to open your marriage file, pay the government fees, and track the progress of your application so you don’t have to fly to the island until the wedding week.

5. Frequently Asked Questions for Non-EU Couples

Can we get married at a waterfall or cliffside? Yes! Once the legal paperwork (the “signing”) is authorized, the Registrar can travel to an external location, or you can perform a brief legal signing at the office followed by a symbolic ceremony at your dream location.
Will our marriage be legal in our home country? Yes. Portugal is a member of the Hague Convention. We provide you with an international marriage certificate that is recognized worldwide.
What if our country doesn’t issue a “Certificate of No Impediment”? Some countries (like the US) do not issue this specific document. In these cases, we assist you in obtaining a sworn affidavit or consular equivalent that the Portuguese authorities will accept.